Affiliation: Interdisciplinary Studies
Disability studies focuses upon disability as a social, cultural and political phenomenon, and explores how disability is defined and represented in society. The Disability Studies Minor is an interdisciplinary approach to examining the interplay between the lived experience of disability and the social construction of disability. The minor balances theoretical exploration with practical application, and provides students with a broad understanding of disability history, cultural representation, social justice and civil rights issues, policy concerns, and current ethical debates.
Why Seek a Minor in Disability Studies?
Disability is a constant, pervasive, and deeply misunderstood element of human existence. While prevalence rates are unclear, somewhere between 15-20% of all people have a disability. It has been said that virtually all people will have a disability at some point in their lives; it might be due to accident, disease, or old age. Few lives remain untouched by disability - in our parents, our siblings, or our friends. People with disabilities, throughout the world and in large numbers, remain disenfranchised, segregated, and oppressed. The systematic study of disability can help to change this injustice.
How does one officially declare intent to earn a Disability Studies Minor?
To complete a DS Minor, a student must submit an approved Minor Program Worksheet to the Registrar and fulfill all the requirements. This program worksheet as well as a list of the minor’s oversight committee members can be accessed at: http://ois.truman.edu/disability_studies_minor.asp.
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